Fashion show helps Haverhill boy get closer to his walking dream

Aiden Thomas with mum Vicky Thompson (centre), his twin brother Owen and the models at Sainsbury's Fashion Show

Young Aiden Thomas’ journey towards independent walking took a few more steps in the right direction thanks to a charity fashion show.

Aiden was guest of honour, and even modelled, at the show staged by Sainsbury’s in Haverhill last Thursday (November 22) to raise money for Aiden’s Footsteps - one of the supermarket’s charities of the year.

The event raised £328 for the charity, which was set up 18 months ago by Aiden’s parents Vicky Thompson and Gareth Thomas to raise £60,000 to help their son walk - he was born with cerebral palsy.

Vicky, who lives in Sperling Drive in Haverhill and works part-time for Sainsbury’s, said: “He was one of the models. He modelled four outfits and one fancy dress outfit. He absolutely loved it, walking up and down the catwalk with everyone cheering him and clapping him.

“They (Sainsbury’s) have been incredibly supportive, so we are very grateful to them.”

Vicky and Gareth have now raised £37,000 towards a revised target of £50,000.

Much of the money raised was spent on an operation that Aiden underwent in the USA in June to help him walk.

Future funds raised will go towards his continued physiotherapy and equipment needs.